Learn to Love as Jesus Loves
Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. Romans 13:10-11
We all like being around people who love what we love. Everyday decisions like food we eat, the entertainment we enjoy, and even the duties we perform become enjoyable when we share them with others who love what we love. Everything seems better in the context of genuine love.
When Jesus died on the cross on the behalf of sinners. He demonstrated God's love (Romans 5:8). But Jesus also commanded several times for us to love. For example, when we asked to rank the commands of Scripture, Jesus did not hesitate. We can summarize His response with these words: love God passionately and love others intentionally. Jesus, who is love, fulfilled the Law when He loved us, and we must love as He loves: selflessly and sacrificially! Doing so will mean a satisfied soul, fulfillment, and peace. Also loving as Jesus loves makes the Christ-following life enjoyable regardless of our circumstances.
Notice, though, that this love is anything but passive! There is purpose in our love for God. We know that His return for His people is drawing near, so there must be an urgency in our love for others. We must live each day in a way that reflects the love of Christ. Learning to love as Jesus loves will impact both our sense of fulfillment today and the eternal future of those in our little corner of the world.
Prayer : Jesus, teach me to love God and love others as You love. Help me to share Your love today, for that is what You created me to do. I love You! Amen.
We all like being around people who love what we love. Everyday decisions like food we eat, the entertainment we enjoy, and even the duties we perform become enjoyable when we share them with others who love what we love. Everything seems better in the context of genuine love.
When Jesus died on the cross on the behalf of sinners. He demonstrated God's love (Romans 5:8). But Jesus also commanded several times for us to love. For example, when we asked to rank the commands of Scripture, Jesus did not hesitate. We can summarize His response with these words: love God passionately and love others intentionally. Jesus, who is love, fulfilled the Law when He loved us, and we must love as He loves: selflessly and sacrificially! Doing so will mean a satisfied soul, fulfillment, and peace. Also loving as Jesus loves makes the Christ-following life enjoyable regardless of our circumstances.
Notice, though, that this love is anything but passive! There is purpose in our love for God. We know that His return for His people is drawing near, so there must be an urgency in our love for others. We must live each day in a way that reflects the love of Christ. Learning to love as Jesus loves will impact both our sense of fulfillment today and the eternal future of those in our little corner of the world.
Prayer : Jesus, teach me to love God and love others as You love. Help me to share Your love today, for that is what You created me to do. I love You! Amen.
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